Maui is a mischievous Maori hero known for his superhuman strength and daring feats. According to Maori mythology, some of Maui's notable accomplishments included slowing the movement of the sun, discovering New Zealand for humans, and bringing fire to people. The document analyzes storytelling techniques used in the Maui myths and their implications about his character traits, such as his confidence, willingness to take risks, and immense strength.

1. Maui-tiki-tiki-taranga
A Maori Hero

2. Maui – The First Hero
 Word bomb:
Mischievous

3. Analysing Storytelling Techniques
Example Technique What does it make the
reader think of Maui?
“the ropes sang the song He is always just holding
of strong ropes that are on with the most of his
stretched to breaking” strength, pushing himself
to the limits
“Again and again he He is...
struck the sun with the
jawbone”
“he went down to the He is not afraid of going
gloomy cavern.... In the to places that are...
dark underground.”
“Can I not change myself He is confident and
into a bird? Am I not the willing to convince
strongest of all men?” people.
“His muscles stood out He is...
on his arms like the roots
of a tree”

4. Maui Tiki Tiki a Taranga
 1. Why is it important that Maui gets the jawbone
from his grandmother?
 2. Why does Maui want to slow down the pathway of
the sun?
 3. What can we learn from Maui’s brothers tearing up
the fish that Maui caught?
 4. What good things do the Maori people believe that
Maui did to help modern people out?
 5. Do you think Maui is a good role model for
modern New Zealanders?
 6. Of the Vocabulary words from our heroes topic,
which ones do you think best fit Maui? Why?

5. Maui as a Hero Myth
 Read back over the Heracles slides and list the 9
elements of a hero myth.
 Which parts of the Maui story match with the 9
categories of a Hero myth from Joseph Campbell?